When you think of a holiday in Cyprus, what normally comes to mind? For many, it's the clear blue Mediterranean waters, miles and miles of wonderful beaches, and more sun than you know what to do with. But golfing holidays are catching on in Cyprus, which now boasts four championship level courses.
At only 240 km (150 mi) long and 100 km (62 mi) wide at its widest point, it's not unreasonable to think that you could cover all the courses in under a week, while staying at the same hotel throughout your holiday. For those days when you plan to give the golf clubs a rest, there's plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself in Cyprus.
Two of the Cypriot courses are very near to Paphos, while the others are farther to the southeast, near Limassol. If you're planning to hit all four, flying into Paphos and making the coastal city your home base seems to be the most logical choice. Larnaca airport is a larger and more popular, but further away from the golfing.
Assuming you'll be landing in Paphos make sure you utilize one of the airport vendors for your car hire Paphos airport employees can give you a recommendation if you haven't previously made a reservation. Make sure you get a mid-sized vehicle in order to comfortably carry your luggage and golf clubs.
On your first day of golf you might consider Tsada. The Tsada Golf Course is just minutes north of Paphos near the village of the same name. This 18-hole, championship course was designed by Donald Steel and plays at more than 6000m. The par 72 course requires a handicap, but those without a certificate are sometimes allowed to play during non-peak times. Proper golf attire is required.
Secret Valley is the other Golf course close to Paphos, lying just to the east near the village of Kouklia. Secret Valley is a 6120m course with handicap requirements as well. The course includes PG-certified instructors, a video coaching system, driving range, putting greens, and special areas for practicing your pitch and chip shots.
Your car hire from the Paphos airport will come in handy as you drive down the southern coast to Limassol, where you'll encounter the family-friendly Vikla Golf Course. At a shorter 4081m, the 18-hole, par-68 golf course requires no formal dress or handicap certificate.
Finally, the most recent build on Cyprus is Aphrodite Hills Golf Course. Constructed in 2002, it is easily the most popular of the four and perhaps the most difficult. It is part of a five-star hotel complex overlooking the Mediterranean, plays at more than 6600m, and requires formal dress and handicap certificate. Aphrodite Hills offers a golf academy and a dual-ended driving range.